Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli

This one‑pan pasta is all about speed and big flavor perfect for busy weeknights. Bite‑sized chicken cooks quickly, bowtie pasta and broccoli finish together to save time, and a zippy cowboy butter sauce ties everything in seconds. Keep pantry staples on hand and you can have dinner on the table without fuss. If you like simple shortcuts, check out a sweet snack idea like this caramel pretzel bark for an easy dessert after dinner.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe works because it matches fast protein with quick‑cooking pasta and a buttery lemon sauce that needs almost no hands‑on time. Cutting the chicken into bite‑sized pieces reduces cook time and ensures even browning. Adding broccoli to the pasta pot during the last three minutes trims an extra step and one dirty pan. The reserved pasta water helps emulsify the sauce so it coats everything evenly without needing cream. A few fresh herbs and lemon brighten the dish so you get restaurant‑level flavor in a fraction of the time.

Flavor and Texture

Expect a balance of rich and bright: the butter and Parmesan create a silky base while lemon juice and zest add lift. Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika give the chicken a warm, smoky edge without overpowering the herbs. Broccoli adds a tender‑crisp contrast to soft pasta and juicy chicken. Fresh parsley and chives finish the dish with herbal freshness and a pop of color. If you like a little heat, the crushed red pepper flakes are optional but effective.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping)

Step by Step Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add bowtie pasta and cook until al dente.
3. In the last 3 minutes, add broccoli florets.
4. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
5. In a bowl, season chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
7. Cook chicken for 6–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and cooked through.
8. Remove chicken and set aside.
9. In the same skillet over medium heat, melt butter.
10. Add garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
11. Stir in red pepper flakes, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and zest.
12. Mix in parsley and chives, seasoning with salt and pepper.
13. Add pasta, broccoli, and chicken back to the skillet.
14. Toss to coat in the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed.
15. Stir in Parmesan cheese until creamy and well combined.
16. Serve warm with extra Parmesan, fresh parsley, and a squeeze of lemon juice.

Quick Tips and Shortcuts

Use pre‑cut chicken from the grocery deli or buy thin cut chicken to cut prep time even more. Frozen broccoli florets work fine add them for the last 3–4 minutes of cooking instead. Grate Parmesan fresh for better melting, or use good quality pre‑grated in a pinch. Want to save time on herbs? Use 1 teaspoon dried parsley and omit chives, or swap with a quick sprinkle of Italian seasoning. For a quick dessert pairing, try something easy and festive like Christmas sprinkle buttermilk bread while the pasta cooks.

Storage and Meal Prep

Cool completely and store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or reserved pasta water to revive the sauce. For meal prep, keep sauce and pasta/chicken separated if possible to avoid sogginess, then combine and warm before eating. This dish does not freeze well because the broccoli texture changes after thawing.

Short Closing Note

This Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken is a go‑to when time is short but you still want bold flavor. It’s forgiving, fast, and perfect for weekday dinners or simple entertaining.

Conclusion

For another take on cowboy butter pasta that leans into long noodles, see Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine on I Am Homesteader: Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine.

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